DE filter, pressure dropping

[Whatrymes]

Hi:

This is a first. After I backwash/recharge my DE filter the pressure has always run, for years, between 10 - 11 psi as long as it's clean. But now I've noticed that it's been down to 8 the last couple of days. I've recharged it, cleaned the baskets, checked the weir, all is clear. The return feels normal and I do not see any air bubbles, I'm stumped.

 

[duraleigh]

Usually an indication of some type of restriction (partial blockage) on the suction side of your system.

 

[keene3b07]

When the pump is running can you see air in the pot?

 

[Whatrymes]

When the pump is running can you see air in the pot?

No, no air in the pot.

 

[Whatrymes]

Don't see any obstruction from the skimmer to the pot. The pot, which is idle right now is filled with hazy water. Looks like DE????

 

[jblizzle]

That could happen if you have a build-up of air in the filter that gets compressed. Then when the pump shuts off, the air pushes water backward through the filter into the pump.

Another possibility regarding the lower pressure is that some debris is stuck in your impeller.

 

[Whatrymes]

I'm not familiar with the inner workings of a pool pump so I don't know if the problem is the impeller and everything "feels" normal. The pressure from the return, the suction at the weir. I cleaned, lubed and Teflon taped everything I could. Checked for debris, tightened everything and turned on the power. Wow, my pressure was back to normal and held for my morning cycle. But after the power cut, the pot once again was full of DE (?) and when the power returned, the pressure was the lowest it's been.

So, while I'm waiting for someone to take a look at this, is there a downside? Should I run as normal?

Thank you,
Ed

 

[heweydewey]

I'm curious to hear what you find out. This just happened to me as well. Pressure was always 15 since last year and this season. I bumped it and it started running at around 12. I also noticed de in the pool.

Just took apart the filter and acid washed the fingers. Was expecting to find holes and tears but nothing. Everything looked good.

Just put it back together and its running at 11, which at least now I expect it to do since I just cleaned it. Hoping I dont see any DE in the pool when I check it later.